DOE orders Semirara to explain 'collateral issues' within 48 hours  

The Department of Energy has ordered Semirara Mining and Power Corporation to explain within 48 hours the collateral issues raised against the company.

The department said an audit team from its technical staff and other government agencies will also be sent to the mining site and assess the situation.

The issues, which the Energy Department said are affecting the energy and power industry, include:

• toxic waste affecting the mangroves

• sulfur content of coal produced

• adverse effect on the lives of seaweed farmers

• poverty level in Semirara at 47%

• mining overburden affecting the housing community within your operating area

• land-grabbing issue

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange on Monday, the company said "... we received through facsimile a letter from the DOE stating that pursuant to its mandated jurisdiction to oversee and manage the Philippines energy and power industry, requiring Semirara Mining and Power Corporation to clarify and explain in writing within forty-eight (48) hours from receipt thereof the ... collateral issues raised against the corporation.

"Further, the DOE’s technical staff and other concerned government agencies will be conducting technical audit(s) at the corporation’s operating site to look into and assess the matter," the company said.

On Thursday, Environment Secretary Gina Lopez said the Department of Environment and Natural Resources was reevaluating the Environmental Clearance Certificate of Semirara, together with two other companies, considering that its clearance was issued before it was able to meet the requirements. — VDS, GMA News